There is a long-standing debate over the gender of this noun: is it feminine or masculine? Many say it’s masculine, like the characteristics of its wine.
Its reputation as an excellent wine can withstand such arguments. By the way, in local dialect, Barbera is a feminine noun.
Its colour is a deep reddish purple, rich in vibrant tones. Its bouquet is redolent of fruits and flowers: peaches, apricots, apples and wild flowers. Its flavour is fullbodied and well structured, with acid levels that help it age well.
It is good in company with fried foods, boiled dinners, ripe cheeses and the traditional bagna càuda, a rich anchovy and garlic fondue.
As it is stated by the Disciplinary Rules, the appellation Superiore (higher in grade) is due to the longer ageing in wooden barrels and to the very heavy thinning of the bunches in the vineyard.
The minimum alcohol content for the Barbera d’Alba is 12,5%: it should be served generously, but never at a temperature below 14 to 16°C or 58°F.
